Black Kitchen Sinks Buying Guide
A black kitchen sink adds contrast to a light benchtop and blends into a dark one. This collection includes matte black fine fireclay sinks from Turner Hastings and Fienza, quartz resin sinks from the Phoenix 5000 Series, granite composite sinks from Oliveri, Seima and Modern National, and the Oliveri Spectra. It suits modern, industrial and contemporary farmhouse kitchens.
Is a black kitchen sink a good idea?
Yes, if you choose a durable material and know what black hides and shows. A matte black sink hides scratches, stains and fingerprints better than white or polished steel. It shows water spots and limescale more clearly, because white mineral marks stand out against a dark surface. Drying the sink after use keeps it looking even.
What are black kitchen sinks made of?
The sinks here come in three main materials. Fine fireclay, used in the Turner Hastings Cuisine and Fienza Benson, is fired clay with a glaze, heavy and resistant to heat. Quartz and granite composites, used in the Phoenix 5000 Series, Seima Oros and Oliveri Santorini, are made from crushed stone bound with resin, with the colour running through the material. Oliveri describes the Santorini as 80 percent granite and quartz and 20 percent acrylic, heat resistant to 280 degrees Celsius. The Oliveri Spectra is stainless steel with a PVD coating.
Which is better, a composite or fireclay black sink?
Both are good choices with different strengths. A composite sink is lighter, comes in many bowl layouts and has colour all the way through, so small scratches are less visible. A fireclay sink has a glazed surface that is very hard and easy to wipe, and a solid, classic feel, but a heavy dropped pan can chip the glaze. Choose composite for a busy family kitchen and fireclay for a classic or butler-style look.
Can a black sink be undermounted?
Many can. The Turner Hastings Cuisine sinks are designed for inset or undermount installation, and the Oliveri Santorini comes in both topmount and undermount versions. An undermount sink needs a stone or solid surface benchtop. A topmount sink suits laminate and timber benches and is easier to replace later.
What size black sink do I need?
Choose by cabinet width and how you cook. Small single bowls, such as the Turner Hastings Cuisine 30 x 46 or the Phoenix 418mm, suit a prep area or small kitchen. Large single bowls fit big pots. One and a half, 1.75 and double bowls, such as the Phoenix 804mm double and Seima Oros 1160, separate washing from rinsing. Models with a drainer need a wide cabinet.
How do I clean a black kitchen sink?
Wipe it after use with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, then dry it to prevent water spots. Remove limescale with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner suited to the material. Avoid bleach, scourers and steel wool. Do not leave hot pans directly on composite surfaces, and use a sink grid to protect the base.
Completing the room
Compare other finishes in gunmetal kitchen sinks and white sinks, and pair your sink with a matte black mixer from Greens tapware at The Blue Space.